Gary Don McDonald, a lifelong Texan known for his kindness, work ethic, and generosity, passed away on August 21, 2026, in Abilene, Texas. He was born on December 20, 1954, in Coleman, Texas.

Gary attended school in his hometown of Coleman and Cooper High School in Abilene. Early in his career, he trained at the General Motors Assembly Plant in Arlington, where he earned certification as an auto mechanic specializing in Cadillac and Buick vehicles. His commitment and skill led him to serve in this capacity for a decade. Drawing on his expertise and entrepreneurial drive, Gary later opened his own auto repair shop in Abilene, serving residents with integrity and dedication for over 10 years.

Continuing to evolve in his professional life, Gary became a locksmith and started Abilene Locksmith, a venture that let him meet many new people throughout Abilene and the Big Country, building relationships and providing services valued by many.

He is survived by his daughter Shae Keith and husband, Kevin, his sisters Vickie Owen Hale and Wanda Cardella and a granddaughter Madison Paige Keith.

Gary is preceded in death by his parents, Newton Carl McDonald, Jr. and Margaret “Maggie” Jane Andrews McDonald, sisters Anita Floyd and LeAnn Brooks and his grandparents, Maxie “Big Momma” Williams McDonald and Newton McDonald.

Known for his warmth and open-heartedness, Gary never met a stranger. He would converse with anyone, often extending a prayer, offering support to those he encountered. Family and friends remember him as someone who gave freely of himself, devoted especially during the holiday season to ensuring that every child experienced the joy of Christmas. He often teamed up with the Christian Motorcycle Club to collect toys for children in need, demonstrating his commitment to serving others year after year.

Beyond his generosity, Gary was a man of many passions. He found joy in dancing at every dance hall he could find, cherished the freedom of the open road on his Harley or the thrill of riding his dirt bike on winding trails, and often sought solitude in fishing or gliding across the lake in his canoe. His love of racing was evident both on the dirt track, where he raced as a driver, and in his enthusiasm for watching NASCAR events in person.

Gary took pride in his craftsmanship, spending countless hours in his workshop on building projects, from creating personal items to constructing patios for new friends and neighbors. His hands were always busy, and his efforts brought comfort and camaraderie to those around him.

A funeral service to honor Gary Don McDonald will be held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, August 29, 2026, at Stevens Funeral Home Chapel, 400 West Pecan Street in Coleman Rev. Marvin Hale officiating. Friends and acquaintances are invited to gather in remembrance and to celebrate a life dedicated to family, community, and heartfelt generosity. Gary’s legacy endures in the lives he touched and the values he exemplified—kindness, integrity, and an unwavering willingness to help others.

We invite you to share fond memories and words of comfort and condolence for the McDonald family by signing the guestbook on Gary's tribute page at www.stevensfuneralhome.com. Stevens Funeral Home is honored to serve the McDonald family.